South Korea to Build First Nuclear-Powered Submarine by Mid-2030s

The South Korean government on Tuesday unveiled its basic plan to build the first nuclear-powered submarine (NPS) using domestic technology by the mid-2030s. After seven months of preparation, the Ministry of National Defense has named the NPS project the 'Jang Bogo-N Project.'

President Lee Jae-myung discussed the 'Basic Plan for Nuclear-Powered Submarine Development' at the first Future Defense Strategy Committee meeting, stating that it symbolizes the nation's commitment to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and will contribute to strengthening its defense industry capabilities.

The Ministry of National Defense announced that the submarine's reactor would use low-enriched uranium as fuel and employ a 'long-cycle operation' method to minimize fuel replacement. It explained that the domestic development and construction of the NPS are intended to secure self-reliance and stability in power acquisition, maintenance, and repair.

Minister of National Defense Ahn Gyu-baek emphasized that the country will adhere to its principle of not possessing or developing nuclear weapons, cooperate with the United States to fulfill non-proliferation obligations throughout the low-enriched uranium management process, and establish a transparent management and oversight system in cooperation with the IAEA.